Itinerary ideas for Argentina

Planning Your Argentinian Adventure

Best Time to Visit Argentina

Argentina’s vastness means that the best time to visit depends entirely on where you want to go. Spanning multiple climate zones, the country offers something spectacular in every season. Choosing the right time of year is the first step in crafting your ideal journey. For a comprehensive overview of what to expect, check out our Argentina Travel Guide.

• Spring (September – November): This is an excellent shoulder season with pleasant temperatures across most of the country. It’s an ideal time for trekking in Patagonia as the trails reopen after winter, and for witnessing Buenos Aires awash in the purple blossoms of its famous jacaranda trees. For this region, consider our guide on what to pack for hiking in Patagonia.
• Summer (December – February): This is the peak season for Patagonia, offering long days and the best weather for hiking and exploration. However, it can be hot and humid in the north, particularly in Buenos Aires and around Iguazu Falls. Expect larger crowds and higher prices in popular southern destinations. If you’re planning a trip to this iconic region, our Do’s and Don’ts in Patagonia will be helpful.
• Autumn (March – May): Perhaps the most agreeable season nationwide. The weather is mild, the summer crowds have thinned, and Patagonia’s landscapes are painted in stunning autumn colors. This is also the perfect time to visit Mendoza for the bustling grape harvest festivals.
• Winter (June – August): Winter is the prime time for skiing in the Andean resorts like Bariloche. It’s also an excellent season to explore the Northwest (Salta and Jujuy), as the climate is dry and sunny, making for comfortable sightseeing in the high-altitude deserts. For more on this region, see our Best Places to visit in North West Argentina.

Getting Around This Vast Country

Navigating Argentina requires some planning, as the distances between key destinations are significant. A combination of air and ground transport is often the most practical approach. For more on how to get around and where to stay, explore our guide to Accommodation in Argentina.

• By Air: Flying is the most efficient way to travel between regions, turning a 24-hour bus ride into a 3-hour flight. The main national carrier is Aerolíneas Argentinas, supplemented by several budget airlines. To manage costs, it’s wise to book multi-city tickets in a single transaction or look for domestic flight passes that can offer better value than individual one-way fares.
• By Bus: For shorter or overnight journeys, Argentina’s long-distance bus network is an excellent option. The buses are generally comfortable, safe, and cost-effective. For maximum comfort on long hauls, book a “cama” (bed) or “semi-cama” (reclining) seat, which often includes meals and drinks.
• By Car: Renting a car provides unparalleled flexibility, especially in regions that reward exploration. It is the ideal way to experience a road trip through Patagonia’s Route 40 or to navigate the scenic loops and mountain passes of the Salta and Jujuy provinces in the Northwest.

Understanding Argentina’s Scale

It is difficult to overstate the size of Argentina. As the eighth-largest country in the world, it stretches from the tropics in the north to the sub-antarctic conditions of Tierra del Fuego in the south. To put it in perspective, the distance from Iguazu Falls to Ushuaia is greater than the distance from London to Moscow.

This immense scale means that trying to see everything by ground transport is impractical for most travelers on a limited schedule. To truly experience the country’s diverse landscapes—from the thundering waterfalls of the north to the glaciers of the south—internal flights are not just a convenience, but a necessity to maximize your time and enjoyment.

Itinerary 1: The 10-Day Classic Argentina Highlights

Best for

First-time visitors and travelers with limited time who want to experience the country’s most iconic sights. This itinerary is a perfectly paced introduction to Argentina’s incredible diversity, covering the European elegance of its capital, the raw power of a natural wonder, and the icy grandeur of Patagonia. Discover more about the country’s must-see spots in our Best Places to visit in Argentina guide.

The Route at a Glance

• Days 1-3: Buenos Aires (Culture, History, and Tango)
• Days 4-6: Iguazu Falls (A Wonder of the Natural World)
• Days 7-9: El Calafate (Patagonia’s Glaciers)
• Day 10: Depart from Buenos Aires

Must-Do Experiences

This journey focuses on three distinct and unforgettable regions, each offering a signature Argentine experience.

• In Buenos Aires: Immerse yourself in the city’s soul. Wander through the brightly painted streets of the La Boca neighborhood and feel the energy of its street artists and tango dancers. Spend a quiet afternoon exploring the ornate mausoleums of Recoleta Cemetery, the final resting place of Eva Perón. As evening falls, attend an authentic tango show in a traditional milonga or theater for a display of passionate, intricate dance.
• At Iguazu Falls: Experience the falls from two distinct perspectives. On the Argentinian side, a network of walkways takes you over, under, and right next to the thundering cascades, culminating in the awe-inspiring platform overlooking the Garganta del Diablo (Devil’s Throat). The following day, cross the border to Brazil for a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire waterfall system, a perspective that truly captures its immense scale.
• In El Calafate: Witness the power of Patagonian ice. A boat tour on Lago Argentino will bring you face-to-face with the towering, blue-hued wall of the Perito Moreno Glacier. Listen for the thunderous crack as massive chunks of ice calve into the water. For a more intimate encounter, consider a guided glacier trekking excursion, where you’ll don crampons and walk directly on the ancient ice itself. This experience is detailed in our Guide to Perito Moreno.

Itinerary 2: The 2-Week Patagonia Adventure

Best for

This itinerary is designed for active travelers, keen hikers, and landscape photographers who wish to delve deep into the raw, dramatic beauty of Southern Patagonia. If your idea of a perfect trip involves granite spires, sprawling glaciers, and pristine wilderness, this is the journey for you. For tips on what to pack for such an adventure, check out our guide on what to pack for hiking in Patagonia.

The Route at a Glance

• Days 1-3: Buenos Aires (Arrival and Acclimatization)
• Days 4-7: El Chaltén (The Trekking Capital)
• Days 8-10: El Calafate (Glacier National Park)
• Days 11-13: Ushuaia (The End of the World)
• Day 14: Fly to Buenos Aires for Departure

Must-Do Experiences

• El Chaltén: As Argentina’s trekking capital, El Chaltén is a paradise of well-marked trails. The two essential day hikes are the trek to Laguna de los Tres, which rewards you with an unparalleled, direct view of Mount Fitz Roy’s iconic peaks, and the equally stunning hike to Laguna Torre for breathtaking vistas of the needle-like Cerro Torre.
• El Calafate: While the Perito Moreno Glacier is the star attraction, Los Glaciares National Park holds much more. Dedicate a full day to a boat navigation on Lago Argentino. These tours, often called “Ríos de Hielo” (Rivers of Ice), take you deep into the park to witness other colossal glaciers like Upsala and Spegazzini, offering a true sense of the ice field’s immense scale.
• Ushuaia: Experience the feeling of being at the world’s southernmost city. Take a cruise on the historic Beagle Channel to see the Les Eclaireurs Lighthouse, colonies of sea lions, and cormorants. Reserve another day for hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park, where coastal trails wind through subpolar forests and offer serene views of Lapataia Bay. For more on the region, consult our Do’s and Don’ts in Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.

Itinerary 3: The 3-Week Grand Tour of Contrasts

Best for

Travelers with more time who want to experience Argentina’s incredible diversity, from the tropical jungles of the north to the icy wilderness of the south. This itinerary connects disparate landscapes and cultures into one unforgettable journey. Explore more about the Argentina Travel Guide for a comprehensive overview.

The Route at a Glance

• Week 1: Patagonia’s Greatest Hits (Ushuaia & El Calafate/El Chaltén)
• Week 2: The Andean Northwest (Salta & Jujuy)
• Week 3: Natural Wonders & City Buzz (Iguazu Falls & Buenos Aires)

Regional Deep Dives

This itinerary is less about a strict day-by-day schedule and more about immersing yourself in three of Argentina’s most distinct regions. The flow allows you to move from one extreme to another, truly appreciating the country’s scale.

The Andean Northwest

After the cool blues of Patagonia, the warm, earthy tones of the Northwest offer a complete change of scenery and culture. Base yourself in the city of Salta, known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife centered around peñas—folk music clubs where you can enjoy local food and wine. From Salta, renting a car is the best way to explore the region. The highlight is a road trip north through the Quebrada de Humahuaca, a stunning river valley and UNESCO World Heritage site. Discover more about this fascinating area in our guide to the best places to visit in Northwest Argentina.

• Key Stops: Don’t miss Purmamarca to see the incredible Hill of Seven Colors, the pre-Incan ruins at Tilcara, and the vast, shimmering expanse of the Salinas Grandes salt flats.

Patagonia & Iguazu

For the Patagonian and Iguazu Falls portions of your trip, you can follow the key experiences outlined in the 10-day and 2-week itineraries. The primary benefit of this longer tour is the luxury of a more relaxed pace. You can add an extra day of hiking in El Chaltén, take a more extensive boat tour among the glaciers of Lago Argentino, or simply spend more time absorbing the power of Iguazu without feeling rushed.

Buenos Aires

With a few days in the capital at the end of your trip, you can move beyond the main tourist sites. Use the extra time to delve into the city’s distinct neighborhoods. Explore the trendy boutiques, parks, and world-class restaurants of Palermo, or discover the quieter, leafy streets of Belgrano. For a break from the urban energy, consider a day trip to the Tigre Delta, a peaceful network of rivers and islands just a short train ride from the city, offering a completely different perspective on porteño life. Consider checking our guide to accommodation in Argentina to help plan your stay.

Themed Itinerary: A 12-Day Food and Wine Journey

Best for

This itinerary is crafted for travelers whose explorations are guided by their palate. It’s for the foodies, wine connoisseurs, and anyone who believes that the true essence of a country is discovered through its culinary traditions, from bustling city grills to high-altitude vineyards.

The Route at a Glance

• Days 1-4: Buenos Aires (Steak, Speakeasies, and Street Food)
• Days 5-8: Mendoza (The Heart of Malbec Country)
• Days 9-11: Salta (High-Altitude Wines and Northern Flavors)
• Day 12: Depart from Salta or Buenos Aires

Must-Do Experiences

• Buenos Aires: Your culinary immersion begins in the capital. The cornerstone of this experience is the asado, the traditional Argentine barbecue that is more a social ritual than a mere meal. Seek out a classic parrilla (steakhouse) for a memorable dinner. To get hands-on, join a cooking class to master the art of folding the perfect empanada. For a unique dining experience, book a table at a puerta cerrada, or “closed-door restaurant,” where chefs welcome a small number of guests into their homes for an intimate, creative meal.
• Mendoza: From the city, fly west to the foothills of the Andes, where Argentina’s world-renowned wine country awaits. Spend a day touring wineries by bicycle in Luján de Cuyo, one of the oldest and most established Malbec-producing areas. For a different perspective, head to the higher-altitude Uco Valley, known for its modern architecture and premium wines. Here, indulge in a leisurely multi-course lunch with wine pairings at a celebrated winery like El Enemigo, Ruca Malen, or Salentein, where the cuisine is designed to complement the vintages and the mountain views are unparalleled.
• Salta & Cafayate: A flight north reveals a completely different terroir. The high-altitude desert landscapes around Salta and the smaller town of Cafayate produce distinct and aromatic wines. This region is the home of Torrontés, Argentina’s signature white grape, which yields a crisp, floral wine perfect for the dry climate. Visit the boutique bodegas of Cafayate to taste this unique varietal and explore the local cuisine. Be sure to pair the wines with regional specialties like humitas (a savory steamed corn pudding) and tamales, which offer a taste of the area’s rich Andean heritage.

Build Your Own Itinerary: Key Regions Explained

Argentina’s sheer size means its regions offer vastly different experiences. Understanding the character of each area is the first step in crafting a journey that aligns with your interests. Use these building blocks to mix and match destinations, creating a personalized adventure that captures the essence of this diverse country. Explore our comprehensive Argentina Travel Guide for more ideas.

Buenos Aires: The Vibrant Capital

Often called the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires is a city of grand boulevards, passionate culture, and hidden corners. It’s known for its distinct European architecture, the melancholic rhythm of tango that echoes from dance halls, a world-class dining scene ranging from corner parrillas to sophisticated restaurants, and its collection of dynamic neighborhoods (barrios), each with its own unique personality.

• Don’t Miss: A Sunday stroll through the bustling antique market in the cobblestoned neighborhood of San Telmo is a classic experience. Art lovers should visit the MALBA to see an outstanding collection of Latin American art. For a true taste of local life, find a classic café, order a café con leche with medialunas, and simply watch the city go by.

Patagonia: The Wild South

Patagonia is a land of superlatives, a vast wilderness defined by towering granite peaks that pierce the clouds, massive, creaking glaciers that calve into turquoise lakes, and an overwhelming sense of pristine nature. It’s a destination that invites adventure and rewards visitors with some of the most dramatic landscapes on the planet. For those planning an adventure here, check out our guide on what to pack for hiking in Patagonia.

• Key Hubs: El Calafate serves as the primary base for exploring Los Glaciares National Park and witnessing the magnificent Perito Moreno Glacier. For avid hikers, El Chaltén is the undisputed trekking capital, offering world-renowned trails to the base of Mount Fitz Roy and Cerro Torre. Further south, Ushuaia, the world’s southernmost city, offers a unique sense of arrival at “the end of the world,” along with wildlife cruises on the Beagle Channel and hikes in Tierra del Fuego National Park.

Iguazu Falls: The Thundering Giant

Located in the subtropical north, Iguazu Falls is a force of nature that must be seen—and heard—to be believed. This immense system of hundreds of waterfalls is one of the largest and most impressive in the world, stretching for nearly three kilometers along the border of Argentina and Brazil. The sheer volume of water and the roar it produces is an unforgettable sensory experience.

• Pro Tip: To fully appreciate its scale, plan for at least two full days. Dedicate one day to the Argentinian side, where a network of trails allows you to get incredibly close to the cascades, including the awe-inspiring Devil’s Throat (Garganta del Diablo). Spend the next day on the Brazilian side, which offers stunning panoramic vistas of the entire waterfall system.

Mendoza: Wine and High Peaks

Nestled at the foot of the Andes, Mendoza is the heart of Argentina’s wine country. It is globally recognized for its superb Malbec, produced in vineyards that enjoy over 300 days of sunshine a year. The region is characterized by its sophisticated wineries, stunning mountain backdrops, and a gourmet food scene that perfectly complements its wines. Beyond the vineyards, the surrounding landscape provides a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts, with options for hiking, horseback riding, and white-water rafting on the Mendoza River.

The Northwest: Culture and Color

The Northwest region, centered around the provinces of Salta and Jujuy, offers a completely different vision of Argentina. Here, a distinct Andean culture pervades, visible in the music, cuisine, and traditions of its people. The landscape is a high-altitude desert palette of colorful mountains, deep gorges, and vast salt flats. It’s a region for travelers interested in exploring rich history, from colonial towns like Salta and Purmamarca to ancient Incan ruins, all set against some of the most dramatic and surreal desert scenery imaginable. Discover more in our guide to the best places to visit in Northwest Argentina.

Essential Pre-Trip Planning Advice

Currency and Costs

Navigating Argentina’s economy is a unique aspect of traveling here. The country has a complex dual-currency system you should understand. There is the official exchange rate and a parallel, informal rate known as the “Dólar Blue.” This parallel rate offers significantly more Argentine Pesos (ARS) for foreign currency (primarily US Dollars) than the official rate. For travelers, this means bringing physical US dollars can make your trip much more affordable.

The best practice is to bring new, crisp US dollar bills (ideally $100s) as they are preferred and easier to exchange. You can exchange them at “cuevas” (unofficial exchange houses) in major cities, which is a common and generally safe practice. While credit card usage is widespread, and international cards now often receive a rate close to the parallel market, carrying cash is essential for smaller towns, markets, and to ensure you always get the best value. Using services like Western Union to send money to yourself for pickup can also provide a favorable exchange rate.

Tipping is customary but not obligatory. In restaurants, leaving a 10% tip in cash for good service is standard practice. For tour guides, a small tip is always appreciated, and it’s also polite to tip hotel porters and other service staff a nominal amount.

Must-Try Argentine Food and Drink

Food

Argentine cuisine is a carnivore’s dream, but its culinary landscape offers much more. Here are some essentials you cannot miss:

• Asado: More than just a barbecue, the asado is a cherished social ritual. It involves slow-cooking various cuts of beef and other meats over hot coals, resulting in unparalleled flavor and tenderness.
• Milanesa: A thin slice of beef, chicken, or veal, breaded and fried to golden perfection. Often served “a la napolitana” with ham, cheese, and tomato sauce.
• Empanadas: These savory pastries are a national staple, with fillings that vary by region. Common varieties include beef (carne), chicken (pollo), and ham and cheese (jamón y queso).
• Provoleta: A delightful appetizer of provolone cheese grilled in a small cast-iron skillet until bubbly and golden, often topped with oregano and chili flakes.
• Dulce de Leche: A sweet, creamy caramel-like spread made from condensed milk. You’ll find it in everything from croissants (medialunas) to ice cream (helado).

Drinks

From world-class wines to unique national spirits, Argentina’s beverages are as memorable as its food.

• Malbec: The country’s signature red wine, primarily from Mendoza. It’s known for its rich, dark fruit flavors and velvety texture, pairing perfectly with steak.
• Torrontés: Argentina’s flagship white wine, grown in the high-altitude vineyards of Salta. It is aromatic and crisp, with floral and citrus notes.
• Fernet and Coke: The unofficial national cocktail, this drink mixes the bitter herbal liqueur Fernet-Branca with Coca-Cola. It’s an acquired taste but a true cultural experience.
• Yerba Mate: This is much more than a drink; it’s a social ceremony. Yerba Mate is a caffeinated herbal infusion prepared in a hollow gourd (the “mate”) and sipped through a metal straw (the “bombilla”). It is traditionally shared among friends, with one person preparing and passing it around the circle. Accepting a mate is a sign of friendship.

Packing for Diverse Climates

Packing for Argentina requires strategic thinking. The country’s vastness means you could experience subtropical humidity in Iguazu and frigid winds in Patagonia on the same trip. The most effective approach is to pack layers. A combination of t-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, fleece jackets, and a reliable outer shell will allow you to adapt to changing conditions, whether you’re in a city or on a mountain trail.

Here is a list of essentials to consider for any itinerary:

• Broken-in hiking boots: Non-negotiable for Patagonia or any trekking. Comfort is paramount, so ensure they are well-worn before your trip.
• Windproof/waterproof jacket: The Patagonian wind is legendary, and rain can be unpredictable anywhere. A good quality shell is one of your most important items.
• Sun protection: The sun can be intense, especially at high altitudes in the Andes and in the south due to the ozone layer. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen are vital.
• Smart casual outfits: For evenings in Buenos Aires or Mendoza, Argentines dress well. Pack a few nicer outfits for dinners, wine tastings, or a tango show.
• A universal power adapter: Argentina uses Type C and Type I outlets. A universal adapter will ensure you can charge your devices without issue.